[Study of the F wave in the rat]

The F wave is produced by the antidromic stimulation of the spinal motoneurons. It can easily be obtained on the distal muscles of rat hind limbs. In rat and man the F wave amplitude and occurrence are different. It is easy to obtain and the responses are constant. It is, therefore, a more reliable method for measuring motor nerve conduction velocity than conventional methods. This technique enables the study of experimental peripheral neuropathies. By varying the frequency and duration of stimulation it is possible to study the 'central excitatory state.'